Most Common Probate Delays & How to Avoid Them

Probate is rarely a simple process, even in the most straightforward of cases. For solicitors and personal representatives, delays can be frustrating, not just because of the administrative pressure they cause, but because families are often left in limbo, waiting for closure and clarity.

While some holdups are unavoidable, many of the most common probate delays can be tackled head-on with the right information and support in place.

1. Missing or Incomplete Information

This is one of the biggest culprits. Whether it’s a missing birth certificate, unclear details about family relationships, or an outdated address for a beneficiary, even small gaps in information can have a knock-on effect on timelines.

Often, the deceased’s paperwork isn’t in order, or may be entirely absent. In some cases, personal representatives may not even know all of the deceased’s relatives, especially in blended families or where contact has been lost over time.

How to avoid it:
Work with a professional research firm early in the process. At Finders International Ireland, we’re often called in after months of chasing dead ends but involving us from the outset can prevent costly delays later. We specialise in piecing together fragmented histories and verifying heir information with legal precision.

2. Disputes Between Beneficiaries or Heirs

Contentious estates are a major cause of probate delays. Whether it’s a will being challenged or beneficiaries disagreeing over entitlements, legal wrangling can freeze proceedings for months – or even years.

How to avoid it:
While some disputes are unavoidable, ensuring all beneficiary information is accurate and up to date can help reduce friction. Clear communication and early verification of heir entitlement can stop small issues from escalating into legal battles.

3. Difficulty Tracing Missing Beneficiaries

These days families are more scattered. It’s not uncommon for beneficiaries to be living abroad, out of contact, or even unaware they’re entitled to anything. Trying to track them down without professional support can be incredibly time-consuming.

How to avoid it:
Engage a probate research company with an international network. We have located heirs in over 100 countries. Our team includes experienced researchers and former police officers who know how to handle sensitive outreach professionally and efficiently.

4. Delays with Financial Institutions or Asset Searches

Gathering information on bank accounts, pensions, properties, and other assets can be a slow process, especially when dealing with multiple institutions, old accounts, or overseas holdings.

How to avoid it:
Request asset searches early and be thorough. Working with partners who have established relationships with financial institutions can speed things along.

5. Lack of Specialist Support

Sometimes the biggest delay is simply not knowing where to turn. Solicitors are often juggling multiple estates, and personal representatives may be navigating probate for the first time. Without the right guidance, it’s easy for cases to stall.

How to avoid it:
Don’t go it alone. Probate doesn’t have to be painful. Whether it’s heir tracing, verifying family trees, dealing with non-responding beneficiaries, or managing complex cross-border cases – our team is here to help.

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Probate is a legal process, but it’s also a deeply human one. Behind every estate is a family, a story, and a legacy. Delays can feel like more than just red tape – they can feel personal.

At Finders International Ireland, we understand that. That’s why we pride ourselves on being efficient, reliable, and, above all, sensitive to the needs of every case. If you’re experiencing probate delays, or want to avoid them from the start, get in touch. We’re ready when you are.

Need help with a case?
Contact us today to find out how we can support your legal team and keep your probate files moving.